Paul Bradford (Fine Gael)

Over recent weeks I have been impressed but not surprised by the force and tone of many colleagues' contributions on the Quinn Group. Notwithstanding Senator Ross's earlier criticism, we all acknowledge the economic growth and jobs the group brought to the north east. However, that the region in question is dependent on one family business for its financial wherewithal must be reflected upon. One could argue the Quinn Group became a substitute for industrial development efforts in the north east, from which a lesson must be learned.

We therefore urgently need a debate on balanced economic development and ensuring the State's job creation agencies see beyond Dublin and the greater Dublin area into all corners of the country. Never again can we have a region so dependent on one employer. While I empathise and sympathise with all those who have lost their jobs in the Quinn Group, a much broader approach to economic planning and development is required.

Will the Leader arrange a debate Northern Ireland in the next few weeks? We have not had one for some time. Today, an election is taking place in our next-door jurisdiction but it is surprising there has not been a stronger focus on the fact that those returned to Northern Ireland's 18 Westminster seats may have a profound impact on the formation of the next British Government. While we have no say as to which administration Northern Ireland MPs will prop up in Westminster, the election result may have a profound impact on internal Northern politics and North-South relations. It is important that in the next several weeks the House debates the broader topic of Northern Ireland, the continuation of dialogue between politicians North and South and the devolved political institutions in Northern Ireland. I am concerned some politician's difficulty in London could become someone else's opportunity in Belfast, which is not always helpful for internal Northern politics.